Oral hygiene implement and method of use

ABSTRACT

Oral hygiene implement including a handle, a first head mounted to the first end of the handle, a second head mounted to the second end of the handle, including a plurality of cleaning elements extending from the first head and the second head wherein the cleaning elements can exhibit releasable dentifrice retained in the cleaning elements.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the field of oral hygiene forhumans and animals. More specifically, the present invention relates toa device and method of use of same for facilitating the cleansing of theareas of the mouth without damaging tooth enamel and creating irritationto the gum or other portions of the mouth area.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Oral hygiene is the practice of keeping the oral cavity clean to preventdental concerns and limit the presence of bacteria in the mouth regionresulting in bad breath. The use of oral care implements, such astoothbrushes, soft tissue cleaner devices, and combination devices ofsimilar nature, is highly recommended as severe gum disease results in asubstantial percentage of adult tooth loss. In addition, tooth decay isthe most common global disease resulting from the generation of cavitiesinside pits and fissures on chewing surfaces where brushing cannot reachtrapped and remaining food and saliva or fluoride have no access toneutralize acid and re-mineralize de-mineralized teeth.

Proper oral hygiene is essential for preventing calculus or tartarbuild-up, a form of hardened dental plaque (a sticky film exhibitingbacteria that forms on the teeth and gums capable of releasing acid thatattacks tooth enamel and resulting tooth decay). Plaque accumulationcauses the gingiva to become irritated and inflamed, resulting in theeventual loss of the connective tissue fibers that attach the gums tothe teeth and bone that surrounds the tooth (i.e., periodontitis). Themost common form of proper oral hygiene is the frequent and regularbrushing of the mouth region and teeth with a toothbrush and the use ofdental floss to prevent accumulation of plaque on the teeth.Supplemental oral hygiene methods and related implements such as tonguecleaning devices are utilized to remove the coating of bacteria commonlycapable of causing bad breath, decaying food particles, fungi, and deadcells from the dorsal area of tongue. In addition, the use of mouthwashor other dental oral hygiene rinses may aid in the removal of bacteria.

Historically, a variety of oral hygiene measures have been used forteeth cleaning. For example, analysis of the activities of variousworldwide cultures has resulted in evidence reflecting the use of chewsticks, tree twigs, bird feathers, animal bones, and porcupine quills ascommon devices for tooth cleaning and maintenance.

Today, the most common device utilized for proper oral hygiene is thetoothbrush. In general, a toothbrush is an oral hygiene instrument usedto clean the teeth and gums that consists of a head of clusteredbristles fixed in a position on a handle, which facilitates thecleansing of areas of the mouth. Common toothpastes, a paste or geldentifrice, are used in the conjunction with the toothbrush to improvethe effectiveness of the movement of the toothbrush. Toothpaste acts asan abrasive that aids in removing the dental plaque and food from theteeth, assists in the elimination and/or masking of halitosis, anddelivers active ingredients such as fluoride or xylitol to help preventtooth and gum disease.

Toothbrushes are presently manufactured in numerous forms with a myriadof reported purposes and objectives designed to improve theeffectiveness of the toothbrush. In particular, toothbrushes areavailable with different bristle textures, bristle types (includingsynthetic and animal hair bristles), and handle and brush head sizes andforms.

As the need for proper hygiene is so pervasive, the United States Patentand Trademark Office is replete with examples of attempts to satisfythis need. To that end, the United States Patent and Trademark Officehas examined patent applications purporting solutions for dental carefor over one hundred years including a patent issued to H. N. Wadsworthin 1857 (U.S. Pat. No. 18,653) for a device manufactured of a bonehandle exhibiting bored holes for the placement of animal hairtherewithin, which is likely the earliest issued patent in the field.

More advanced issued United States patents for common oral careimplements include the development of devices, methods, and means toeliminate mouth-borne bacteria. Conventional toothbrushes typicallyexhibit a head of a parallelogram shape containing fixed nylon bristletufts. In certain advanced devices, additional cleansing structures maybe employed for such desired purposes as massaging gums, cleaning thesoft tissue of the tongue, or other like purposes.

A first example of an improved tooth-cleaning device is embodied inHyman U.S. Pat. No. 3,754,295 which issued on Aug. 28, 1973. The purposeof the disclosed invention, entitled “Two-Headed Brush,” was to provide“a two-headed brush having a general utility and, more particularly, toa two-headed toothbrush.”

The Hyman invention was designed as a “two-headed brush comprising anelongated handle having a tapered structure, bristles secured to arelatively broad head portion of said handle and extending laterallythere from, a second group of bristles attached to a narrow end portionof said.” The unique sizes (i.e., a narrow and a broad head) andpositioning of the bristles on the opposing ends of the elongated handlewere designed to “effect removal of plaque at the gum line withoutcausing serious discomfort and irritation to the gum.”

While the application of Hyman was likely an important disclosure at thetime of its issuance, such a primitive disclosure reveals manydisadvantages. Importantly, the design of the toothbrush heads havelimited ability to retain dentifrice, mouthwashes, or other oral hygienepastes and gels for the application on a tooth or soft tissue regions ofthe mouth. Therefore, the need for a solution that allows for theportability of a brushing device exhibiting a plurality of brushingheads and containing oral hygiene dentifrice or other similar oralhygiene materials in a single device continues to exist.

In a second example, a disposable and reusable toothbrush withtoothpaste disposed in the handle of the device is disclosed inLafortune U.S. Pat. No. 5,584,593. Lafortune acknowledges that certaincontemporaneous art in the field exhibits improvements in the art,however, readily acknowledges certain shortcomings in the field.Specifically, Lafortune claims that while certain toothbrushes in theart employ a brush and dentifrice disposed therein thereby eliminatingthe need for both a toothbrush and a toothpaste tube such toothbrusheshave been intended for long-time use and as a result “complex andexpensive solutions” to the refilling of the handles with toothpastehave been implemented. “Also, in the prior toothbrushes, valves havebeen used which prevent the expulsion and waste of toothpaste and thecontact of the toothpaste with air which would result in caking” and“[s]uch valves add significantly to the cost of the toothbrushes.”

Thus, Lafortune discloses a toothbrush having a front and back surfaceand a handle, neck and head. The disclosed handle contains a hollow areacontaining sufficient toothpaste for one to three brushings. The hollowarea is covered with a compressible plastic pad which allows for theforcing of the toothpaste from the hollow area. The neck of thetoothbrush contains a duct which leads from the hollow area of thehandle to openings which are in the head of the toothbrush. According tothe disclosure, a series of openings evenly dispersed throughout thebristle tufts in the head of the toothbrush allow for the user to forcetoothpaste through the openings to the bristle tufts.

According to the disclosure, the aforementioned design provides “aninexpensive combination of toothbrush and toothpaste which is effectiveto provide toothpaste from the handle to the bristles of the toothbrush”for one to three brushings. In addition, Lafortune is designed to“provide an inexpensive method for preventing the expulsion oftoothpaste from the handle and the concurrent wasting and caking oftoothpaste.”

While the Lafortune disclosure is clearly an improvement over theexisting art, it is limited to its short-term use. Further, Lafortune isonly useful for the application of toothpaste and does not employ ameans to utilize additional oral hygiene products such as mouthwash orthe like.

A further improvement in the prior art, Moskovich U.S. Pat. No.5,628,082 entitled “Toothbrush with Improved Efficacy,” is directed to abrush “with a secure grip, a more effective bristle arrangement, and aspecially shaped head . . . which is highly effective for the removal ofplaque from teeth with manual brushing.” In discussing the background ofthe art at the time of the disclosure, Moskovich acknowledges certainshortcomings in the prior art. Moskovich readily acknowledges that it isthe objective in the field of the art to (1) “provide effective surfacearea cleaning, including the top of the crown of the tooth and thefrontal planar portions,” (2) “provide cleaning at the gumline, wheredebris often accumulates out of the reach of normal tongue cleaningaction,” (3) “provide effective cleaning between teeth,” (4) “reach themost confined regions of the oral cavity easily,” (5) provide a device“capable of directing force at teeth and surfaces individually, whilesimultaneously allowing brushing of larger surface areas,” (6) provide adevice that is “comfortable and convenient,” and (7) provide a devicethat “effectively removes plaque.” While the design employed by theMoskovich disclosure arguably accomplishes the aforementionedobjectives, the disclosure fails to provide a singular device for theemployment of a brushing mechanism and release and containment oftoothpastes and other oral hygiene solutions.

An additional improvement in the related field of the present invention,includes the disclosure of Durana International Patent ApplicationNumber PCT/SK99/00006 entitled “Toothbrush.” Durana discloses animproved toothbrush containing a “polishing block” positioned in closeproximity to the bristles of the toothbrush and in at least oneembodiment, the polishing block further comprising an antibacterialsubstance or manufactured from a non-harmful, edible, elastic, andnon-soluble material containing abrasive particles for tooth polishing.The Durana disclosure declares that the “main advantages of thetoothbrush according to the [Durana invention] include the improvedability of the perfect mouth cleaning [and] a simultaneously betterpolishing of tooth enamel. Another possibility is the antibacterialeffect even without tooth paste.” While the insertion of a “polishingblock” is clearly the novelty of the Durana disclosure, clearly such useof a soluble “polishing block” can not be replenished once the block isdepleted after one or more periods of use.

Frazell U.S. Pat. No. 5,915,868 entitled “Portable Toothbrush withDentifrice” depicts a further improvement in the existing art.Specifically, Frazell provides ergonomic embodiments of a disposabletoothbrush having self-contained dentifrice package and a soft, flexibleplastic head for breaking the dentifrice package and sharp, hollow tubesor needles for distributing the dentifrice to the bristles. The Frazellinvention is described as an improvement over related art in its“innovative mechanical design, in its ergonomic facility in bothgripping the handle and moving the soft, rounded head through the mouth,and in its outward appearance.” Further, the invention is argued toexhibit “important mechanical innovations” as the “head behind thebristles is constructed of soft, flex-memory plastic which can becompressed to force the packet within it against puncture means torelease the dentifrice.”

While clearly an improvement over the existing art, Frazell fails toexplore and implement a system comprising a dual-head design and meansfor providing a single compact unit for the dispersion of multiple oralhygiene solutions.

Andersen U.S. Pat. No. 6,524,023 provides a further improvement in theexisting art. Anderson discloses a first embodiment of a compactdisposable toothbrush kit including a toothpaste dispensing device fordispensing a disposable toothbrush and a toothpaste stick which attachesto the handle using an edible adhesive. In a second embodiment, Andersendiscloses a disposable toothbrush kit including a toothpaste dispensingdevice for dispensing a disposable toothbrush and a plastictoothpaste-containing vial, adhesively attached to the toothbrush.Andersen claims that the device exhibits several advantages over theexisting art as “it eliminates multiple users of the common tube oftoothpaste, providing separate individual doses of toothpaste to eachperson” and it aids in the decrease of “the spread of disease betweenfamily members and toothpaste users.” While the Andersen disclosure islikely an improvement over the then-existing art as it potentiallyexhibits its intended objective, the Andersen disclosure fails toprovide a system comprising a dual-head design and means for providing asingle unit for the dispersion of multiple oral hygiene solutions.Further, Andersen fails to provide a device capable of providingmultiple layers of oral hygiene cleaning such as tongue cleansing orimproved bristle placement.

Clark U.S. Pat. No. 6,769,828 discloses a plurality of embodiments of achewable toothbrush. Specifically, Clark provides a chewable toothbrushincluding a pliable bristle anchor, bristles attached to the bristleanchor, and a handle attached to the bristle anchor. In one embodiment,the bristle anchor includes a cavity that holds a material such astoothpaste or mouthwash which is released from the cavity when thetoothbrush is chewed by a user. The toothbrush disclosed by Clark may bea single-use disposable unit or as a multiple-use unit by reloading thedispensing portion. However, it will be readily apparent to one ofordinary skill in the art that Clark fails to disclose a dual-headdesign and means for providing a single unit for the dispersion ofmultiple oral hygiene solutions. Further, Clark fails to provide adevice capable of providing multiple layers of oral hygiene cleaningsuch as tongue cleansing or improved bristle placement.

Turning yet to another disclosure in the related field of the art, WongU.S. Patent Application No. 2005/0071939 discloses a “Dual HeadToothbrush.” The Wong U.S. patent application is directed to atoothbrush body including an integral head, a body, and a tail portion,wherein the head includes indents for receiving bristles and the tailportion, which is inclined relative to the body portion, includes anindent for receiving the base of an interdental brush. Clearly, the Wongdisclosure includes more than one layer of oral hygiene cleaning (i.e.,a toothbrush and an interdental brush designed to “clean areas of themouth inaccessible or awkward to reach with the main brush”), however,Wong fails to provide a device capable of dispersing toothpaste orsimilar oral hygiene solutions.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,895,629 to Wenzler entitled “Double Sided Toothbrush”discloses a further development in the field of the relevant art.Wenzler is directed to an improved toothbrush employing a scrapperdevice opposite the toothbrush bristles. According to the disclosure,Wenzler is directed to a toothbrush having a handle and a head, whereina plurality of relatively straight bristle fibers extend outward fromone side of a bristle-supporting portion of the head to provide a loopedcoarse scrubbing surface. In addition, a plurality of looped fibersextend outward from another side of a looped fiber-supporting portion ofthe head, wherein an end of each looped fiber is fixably connected tothe fiber supporting surface thereby providing a soft scrubbing loofahlike surface. Further expanding on the disclosure, Wenzler claims thatthe straight bristles can be of varied length to aid in reachingcrevices between the teeth and gums. In addition, the soft looped fiberscan be used to scrub the roof of the mouth as well as the gum areas andthe looped fiber supporting portion can be arcuate and can preferablyextend beyond one hundred eighty to provide for a radial scrubbingsurface aspect.

Wenzler includes more than one layer of oral hygiene cleaning (i.e., atoothbrush and a looped scrapping device for removal of bacteria fromthe roof portion of the mouth as well as the gum region). Like severalof the earlier disclosures, Wenzler fails to provide a device capable ofdispersing toothpaste or similar oral hygiene solutions in conjunctionwith the multiple oral cleansing devices.

Vazquez et al. International Patent Application No. PCT/US2008/054038entitled “Toothbrush” further employs certain improvements to the commontoothbrush. For example, Vazquez et al. discloses a plurality oftoothbrush head configurations designed to “channel” user-appliedtoothpaste to the edges of the brush head. Vazquez et al. furtherdiscloses a head exhibiting a plurality of cleaning elements forenhanced cleaning of the teeth and the soft tissue of the oral cavity.Specifically, a first cleaning element comprises a plurality of bristlesadapted to clean teeth while a second cleaning element is employed onthe opposing side of the head to direct toothpaste previously applied bythe user. The head further employs a location for the user-applieddentifrice so as to eliminate any user error allowing for the properchanneling of the dentifrice once in use. Numerous objectives of theVazquez et al. invention are disclosed. For example, according to thespecification, one of the features of Vazquez et al. is to provide astructure defining the channels including a plurality of members spacedfrom one another to define the recessed channels within gaps between themembers and further including a plurality of protrusions forming aplurality of elongated ridges. Thus, the ridges and channels can have avariety of shapes, including serpentine shapes, arched shapes, andcurved, elongated shapes. In addition, numerous cleaning elements areemployed including a series of bristles adapted to clean teeth and arecessed reservoir defined and configured to receive user-applieddentifrice therein to assure proper placement of the dentifrice.

Each of these aforementioned features of Vazquez et al. are designed toimprove the cleaning of the oral cavity. However, it is apparent fromthe disclosure that the present invention merely provides a recess forthe placement of user-applied toothpaste from a common dispenser such asa tube rather than a portable device integrating the dentifricetherewithin. Further, Vazquez et al. fails to provide multiple cleaningimplements for the application of more than one dentifrices such astoothpaste accompanied by a whitening gel or a mouthwash. Finally,Vazquez et al. fails to provide a means for integrating common dentalfloss or the like in a portable form in one integral unit.

A further prior art disclosure, entitled “Oral Care Implement” isdirected to a portable, limited use toothbrush and an integraldispensing means for a dentifrice. In particular, Robinson et. al U.S.Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0320226A1, is directed to anoral care implement including a handle, a head mounted to one end of thehandle that includes a first face having a plurality of tooth cleaningelements extending therefrom and a store of dentifrice retained at thehead including a film matrix retained at the head containing at leastone rapidly releasable agent. Robinson et al. further discloses theinclusion of a soft tissue cleaner included on a second face. It isfurther disclosed that the at least one rapidly releasable agent can beprovided to the first and/or second faces during use from the filmmatrix wherein the at least one rapidly releasable agent can include,for example, a flavoring agent, a dentifrice, or a therapeutic agent.Finally, Robinson et al. is manufactured of a relatively small size andlightweight design so as to be readily portable for use away from thehome.

Clearly, the benefit of the portability and integral design of Robinsonet al. disclosure is an improvement over the known existing art.However, Robinson et al. still fails to provide multitude heads to allowfor the application of discreet application of a plurality of dentifriceor related agents. Further, Robinson et al; fails to provide a pluralityof cleaning implements to allow for tongue cleaning, roof cleaning, orother regions of the oral cavity, including hard to access regions. Inaddition, Robinson et al. fails to provide a means for the release ofdental floss in one integral compact unit which is highly useful forpersonal at home use or use during travel.

In spite of the myriad of inventions and disclosures related to improvedoral hygiene, it remains readily apparent that portable oral hygieneimplements exhibit numerous shortcomings. Specifically, none of theaforementioned references provide for a hygienic and compact dual headtoothbrush capable of adequately dispersing various oral hygienesolutions, pastes, and/or gels designed for single or multi-use whichexhibits an ease of manufacture and limited complexity of use.

Therefore, the need still remains for a compact integral toothbrushexhibiting a myriad of cleaning elements for use with a plurality ofdentifrice. Further, the need also remains for an inexpensive mechanismfor single or multi-use which can be manufactured and refilled by theconsumer at a consumer-appealing price.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known and variousoral care devices including those devices commonly developed forportable or single use, in accordance with a first preferred embodimentof the present invention, provided is a multi-use oral hygiene implementdesigned to improve oral care, especially oral care “on-the-go,”integrating a multitude of isolated dentifrices via a plurality ofbrushing heads and related cleaning elements. More specifically, thefirst preferred embodiment is designed to be utilized to reduce thepresence of bacterium in the oral cavity of humans and animals byproviding an integral unit employing dispensers for channeling anddistributing toothpaste, toothpowder, therapeutic oral gels,mouthwashes, and the like as well as dental floss.

In short, in a primary embodiment, provided is a novel toothbrush withdentifrice feed system exhibiting ease of use and improved oral cleaningcapability. The toothbrush, made of a common plastic material or thelike, includes an ergonomic handle and grip mechanism for comfort of useand having a first head of ergonomic parallelogram shape positioned at afirst end of the handle and a second head of ergonomic parallelogramshape positioned at a second end of the handle. The first head andsecond head employ a plurality of bristles of various shapes, lengths,strengths, and arrangements designed for particular cleaning aspectssuch as tooth cleaning, roof of mouth cleaning, tongue scrapping, plaqueremoval, gum massaging, etc. for maximum cleaning efficacy and variousapplications. Each head further including a plurality of grooves andchannels to effectively distributing applied dentifrices during use ofthe oral care implement. Each head further including one or morereservoirs for maintaining a dentifrice pod or packet sealed in asoluble material such as a film. Such packets can contain any of aplurality of cleaning agents, including but not limited to toothpastesfor improved tooth cleaning and mouthwash for killing germs in hard toreach places, freshening breath, loosening food caught between teeth,and fighting cavities.

Thus, the primary purpose of the present invention, which will bedescribed subsequently in greater detail, is to provide a firstembodiment concerning a single-use or multi-use compact oral cleansingdevice.

Continuing with the objects of the present invention, in a furtherembodiment, disclosed is a compact oral cleansing unit providing anenhanced dentifrice dispensing unit.

In keeping with the objects of the present invention, a further purposeof the present invention, which will be described subsequently ingreater detail, is to provide an embodiment wherein a compact oralcleansing device exhibiting a multiple enhanced dentifrice dispensingunits.

A further objective is to provide a compact oral cleansing deviceexhibiting a plurality of cleaning units as part of a single device.

In the aforementioned preferred and alternate embodiments, it will bereadily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that various oralcleaning agents may be utilized in accordance with objectives of theinvention disclosed herein.

Thus, there has been summarized and outlined, generally in broad form, aplurality of the most important features of the present invention, asdescribed with respect to the foregoing preferred and alternateembodiments, in order that the following detailed description thereofwhich follows may be better understood by one of ordinary skill in theart. This summary and outline is further presented so that the noveltyof the present contribution to the related art may be betterappreciated. It will further be apparent that additional features of theinvention described hereinafter and which will form the subject matterof the claims appended hereto will further define the scope, novelty,and in certain instances the improvements upon any existing art.

Further, it is to be readily understood that the invention presentedherein is not limited in its application to the details of constructionand to the arrangements of the components set forth in the followingdescription or illustrated in the various figures integrated andcategorized herein. The scope of the disclosure is presented in broadform so that other objects, features, and characteristics of the presentinvention, as well as the methods of operation and functions of therelated elements of the structure, and the combination of parts andeconomies of manufacture, will become more apparent upon considerationof the following detailed description.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the disclosure of thepresent invention may readily be utilized as a basis for the designingof other similar structures, methods and systems for carrying out thevarious purposes and objectives of the present invention. Thus, theclaims as set forth shall allow for such equivalent constructionsinsofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention as described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the present invention and the objectivesother than those set forth above can be obtained by reference to thevarious embodiments set forth in the illustrations of the accompanyingfigures. Although the illustrated embodiment is merely exemplary ofsystems for carrying out the present invention, both the organizationand method of operation of the invention, in general, together withfurther objectives and advantages thereof, may be more easily understoodby reference to the drawings and the following description. The figuresare not intended to limit the scope of this invention, which is setforth with particularity in the claims as appended or as subsequentlyamended, but merely to clarify and exemplify the invention. The detaileddescription makes reference to the accompanying figures wherein:

FIG. 1A depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thepreferred embodiment of the present invention prior to the placement ofencapsulated dentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and thesecond head.

FIG. 1B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thepreferred embodiment of the present invention demonstrating the properplacement of encapsulated dentifrice in the reservoir of the first headand reservoir of the second head.

FIG. 2 depicts a bottom view in accordance with the preferred embodimentof the present invention exhibiting ergonomic elongated handle, theplacement of encapsulated dentifrice in the reservoir of the first headand the second head, and the bristle structure of the first head andsecond head.

FIG. 3A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodiment ofthe present invention exhibiting a handle and a grip as well as theplacement of the dentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and thesecond head within the bristle structure and channels for thedisbursement of the dentifrice.

FIG. 3B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the first head, the placement of asecond dentifrice in the second reservoir of the top side of the secondhead, a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the first headdesigned to cleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaning element on the bottomside of the second head designed to massage the gums, and a modifiedbristle structure of a wave shape to aid in the cleaning of the oralcavity.

FIG. 3C depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting handle and grip as well as a thirdcleaning element on the bottom side of the first head designed tocleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning element on the bottom side ofthe second head designed to massage the gums.

FIG. 4 depicts a series of top views in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the present invention exhibiting numerous shapes and sizesof encapsulated dentifrice.

FIG. 5A depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thepreferred embodiment of the present invention prior to the placement ofencapsulated dentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and thesecond head further exhibiting user-friendly designs and decoration.

FIG. 5B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thepreferred embodiment of the present invention demonstrating the properplacement of encapsulated dentifrice in the reservoir of the first headand the second head further exhibiting user-friendly designs anddecoration.

FIG. 6 depicts a bottom view of a plurality of packaged toothbrushes inaccordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodiment ofthe present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle and rubberized gripas well as the placement of the dentifrice in the reservoir of the firstremovable and replaceable snap head and the removable and replaceablesecond snap head within the bristle structure and channels for thedisbursement of the dentifrice.

FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removable and replaceable firstsnap head, the placement of a second dentifrice in the second reservoirof the top side of the removable and replaceable second snap head, athird cleaning element and fourth cleaning element on the bottom side ofthe first head and the second head, respectively, designed to cleansethe tongue, and a modified bristle structure of a wave shape to aid inthe cleaning of the oral cavity.

FIG. 7C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removed first snap head, theplacement of a second dentifrice in the second reservoir of the top sideof the removed second snap head, a third cleaning element and fourthcleaning element on the bottom side of the first head and the secondhead, respectively, designed to cleanse the tongue, and a modifiedbristle structure of a wave shape to aid in the cleaning of the oralcavity.

FIG. 7D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle and rubberizedgrip as well as a third cleaning element and fourth cleaning element onthe bottom side of the first snap head and the second snap head,respectively, designed to cleanse the tongue.

FIG. 8A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodiment ofthe present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle and rubberized gripas well as the placement of the dentifrice in the reservoir of the firstremovable and replaceable twist head and the removable and replaceablesecond twist head within the bristle structure and channels fordisbursement of the dentifrice.

FIG. 8B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removable and replaceable firsttwist head, the placement of a second dentifrice in the second reservoirof the top side of the removable and replaceable second twist head, athird cleaning element on the bottom side of the first twist headdesigned to cleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaning element on the bottomside of the second twist head designed to cleanse other soft tissue, anda modified bristle structure of a wave shape to aid in the cleaning ofthe oral cavity.

FIG. 8C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removed first twist head, theplacement of a second dentifrice in the second reservoir of the top sideof the removed second twist head, a third cleaning element on the bottomside of the first twist head designed to cleanse the tongue, a fourthcleaning element on the bottom side of the second twist head designed tocleanse other soft tissue, and a modified bristle structure of a waveshape to aid in the cleaning of the oral cavity.

FIG. 8D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle and rubberizedgrip as well as a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the firsttwist head designed to cleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning elementon the bottom side of the second twist head designed to cleanse othersoft tissue.

FIG. 9A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodiment ofthe present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle, rubberized grip,the placement of the dentifrice in the reservoir of the first removableand replaceable snap head, and a removable and replaceable secondinclined interdental brush head.

FIG. 9B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removable and replaceable firstsnap head, removable and replaceable second inclined interdental brushhead, a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the first headdesigned to cleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaning element on the bottomside of the second head designed to massage the gums, and a modifiedbristle structure of a wave shape to aid in the cleaning of the oralcavity.

FIG. 9C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomichandle and rubberized grip, the placement of a first dentifrice in thefirst reservoir of the top side of the removed first snap head, secondinclined interdental brush head, a third cleaning element on the bottomside of the first head designed to cleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaningelement on the bottom side of the second head designed to massage thegums, and a modified bristle structure of a wave shape to aid in thecleaning of the oral cavity.

FIG. 9D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle and rubberizedgrip as well as a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the firstsnap head designed to cleanse the tongue and massage the gums.

FIG. 10 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the snap head inaccordance with the alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B,FIG. 7C, and FIG. 7D of the present invention.

FIG. 11 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the twist head inaccordance with the alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 8A, FIG. 8B,FIG. 8C, and FIG. 8D of the present invention.

FIG. 12 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the snap head interdentalbrush in accordance with the alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 9A,FIG. 9B, FIG. 9C, and FIG. 9D of the present invention.

FIG. 13A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip as well as themechanism for the automatic placement and refill of the dentifrice inthe reservoir of the first head and the second head within the bristlestructure and channels for disbursement of the dentifrice.

FIG. 13B depicts a side view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip as well as a thirdcleaning element on the bottom side of the first head designed tocleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning element on the bottom side ofthe second head designed to cleanse soft tissue.

FIG. 13C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting a rubberizedgrip as well as the mechanism for the automatic placement and refill ofthe dentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and the second headwithin the bristle structure and channels for disbursement of thedentifrice and a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the firsthead designed to cleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning element on thebottom side of the second head designed to cleanse soft tissue.

FIG. 13D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the present invention exhibiting an ergonomic handle andrubberized grip as well as a third cleaning element on the bottom sideof the first head designed to cleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaningelement on the bottom side of the second head designed to cleanse softtissue.

FIG. 14A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip as well as amanually employed mechanism for the forced injection and refill of thedentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and the second head withinthe bristle structure and channels for disbursement of the dentifrice.

FIG. 14B depicts a side view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip as well as amanually employed mechanism for the forced injection and refill of thedentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and the second head withinthe bristle structure and channels for disbursement of the dentifrice,further exhibiting a third cleaning element on the bottom side of thefirst head designed to cleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning elementon the bottom side of the second head designed to massage the gums.

FIG. 14C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting a rubberizedgrip as well as a manually employed mechanism for the forced injectionand refill of the dentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and thesecond head within the bristle structure and channels for disbursementof the dentifrice, further exhibiting a third cleaning element on thebottom side of the first head designed to cleanse the tongue and afourth cleaning element on the bottom side of the second head designedto massage the gums.

FIG. 14D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip and athird cleaning element on the bottom side of the first head designed tocleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning element on the bottom side ofthe second head designed to massage the gums.

FIG. 15A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip, a mechanism forthe automatic placement and refill of the dentifrice in the reservoir ofthe first head and the second head within the bristle structure,channels for disbursement of the dentifrice, and a dental flossdispenser.

FIG. 15B depicts a side view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip, a dental flossdispenser, a third cleaning element on the bottom side of the first headdesigned to cleanse the tongue and a fourth cleaning element on thebottom side of the second head designed to massage the gums.

FIG. 15C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting a rubberizedgrip, a mechanism for the automatic placement and refill of thedentifrice in the reservoir of the first head and the second head withinthe bristle structure, channels for disbursement of the dentifrice, athird cleaning element on the bottom side of the first head designed tocleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaning element on the bottom side of thesecond head designed to massage the gums, and a dental floss dispenser.

FIG. 15D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the present invention exhibiting a rubberized grip, athird cleaning element on the bottom side of the first head designed tocleanse the tongue, a fourth cleaning element on the bottom side of thesecond head designed to massage the gums, and a floss dispenser.

FIG. 16A depicts a top view in accordance with an alternate embodimentof the present invention exhibiting a musical device positioned inergonomic handle as well as the placement of the dentifrice in thereservoirs of the first removable and replaceable snap head and thesecond removable and replaceable snap head within the bristle structure.

FIG. 16B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting a musicaldevice positioned in ergonomic handle as well as the placement ofdentifrice in the reservoirs of the first removable and replaceable snaphead and the second removable and replaceable second snap head, a thirdcleaning element and fourth cleaning element on the bottom side of thefirst head and the second head, respectively, and channels for thedistribution of the dentifrice.

FIG. 16C depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention exhibiting a musicaldevice positioned in ergonomic handle as well as the placement ofdentifrice in the reservoirs of the un-inserted first removable andreplaceable snap head and the un-inserted second removable andreplaceable second snap head, a third cleaning element and fourthcleaning element on the bottom side of the first head and the secondhead, respectively, and channels for the distribution of the dentifrice.

FIG. 16D depicts a bottom view in accordance with an alternateembodiment of the present invention exhibiting a musical devicepositioned in ergonomic handle as well as a third cleaning element andfourth cleaning element on the bottom side of the first snap head andthe second snap head, respectively, each designed to cleanse the tongue.

FIG. 16E depicts an exploded view cross-sectional side view of thecenter portion of the device depicted in FIG. 16B in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 depicts a perspective of a dispenser for storing, dispensing,and refilling the encapsulated dentifrice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A detailed illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosedherein. However, techniques, systems and operating structures inaccordance with the present invention may be embodied in a wide varietyof forms and modes, some of which may be quite different from those inthe disclosed embodiment. Consequently, the specific structural andfunctional details disclosed herein are merely representative, yet inthat regard, they are deemed to afford the best embodiment for purposesof disclosure and to provide a basis for the claims herein which definethe scope of the present invention. The following presents a detaileddescription of a preferred embodiment (as well as some alternativeembodiments) of the present invention.

Moreover, well known methods, procedures, and substances for bothcarrying out the objectives of the present invention and illustratingthe preferred embodiment are incorporated herein but have not beendescribed in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure novel aspects of thepresent invention.

Referring first to FIG. 1A, depicted is a cross-sectional side view inaccordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention priorto the placement of dentifrice capsule 118. Specifically, provided is anergonomic oral hygiene implement 100 composed of an elongated handle 120exhibiting an upper grip 102 and a lower grip 104 to aid in the controlby the user of oral hygiene implement 100. Oral hygiene implement 100 isdesigned primarily for the cleaning of the teeth and soft tissue of theoral cavity (e.g., exterior regions of the tongue, cheeks, gums, lips,etc.), either human or animal. Oral hygiene implement is designed ofappropriate dimensions to foster use by a user and allow a user toreadily grip the implement and manipulate the implement so as to allowfor substantial cleaning of the mouth region. In the present embodimentupper grip 102 and lower grip 104 exhibit protrusions, indentations, andsmooth surfaces to allow for improved grip and traction for the engagedgripping digits of the user. Upper grip 102 and lower grip 104 arepositioned to allow the user to securely utilize oral hygiene implement100 in a bristle-up, bristle-down, or any position therebetween toprovide a three hundred sixty degree range of motion for completecleaning of the upper teeth, lower teeth, and soft tissue of the oralcavity without fear of slipping between the upper grip 102, lower grip104, and elongated handle 120 with the user's gripping digits.

Oral hygiene implement 100 is preferably molded of a suitablethermoplastic material as a single integral unit by any common methodknown in the art such as injection molding or casting. The grippingelements (i.e., upper grip 102 and lower grip 104), are preferablymanufactured of a common rubber material, rubber-like material, or othersuitable deformable thermoplastic. These gripping elements may beadhered to elongated handle 120 with a suitable adhesive or, in thealternative, may be matted to the thermoplastic material via a commoninjection molding process. However, one of ordinary skill in the artwill readily recognize that such complexity in manufacturing an oralhygiene implement utilizing unique materials may yield more expensivemanufacturing costs and as a result may not be employed in alternateembodiments so as to reduce the cost of manufacture. For example, asingular injection molding process may be utilized wherein oral hygieneimplement 100 is manufactured of a single material such as athermoplastic, resin, polypropylene, rubber, wood, metal, or the like,including combinations thereof.

As depicted, oral hygiene implement 100 is comprised of an opposingdual-head construction with a first head 106 comprising first headreservoir 110 and first head bristles 108 positioned at a first end ofelongated handle 120 and a second head 112 comprising second headreservoir 116 and second head bristles 114 positioned at opposing secondend of elongated handle 120. While not depicted, elongated handle can bemanufactured to allow for the angled placement of first head 106 and/orsecond head 112 with respect to the longitudinal axis of elongatedhandle 120 to aid in the improved control of oral hygiene implement 100,as widely recognized in the art.

With respect to the present embodiment, first head bristles 108 andsecond head bristles 114 are composed of tufts of nylon fibers extendingoutward and secured at fiber securing portions substantially straightand perpendicular to first head 106 and second head 112. As depicted,fibers of first head bristles 108 and second head bristles 114 aresubstantially straight and of even length, however, one of ordinaryskill in the art will readily recognize that fibers of varying length,dimensions, material types (such as thermoplastic elastomer, linear lowdensity polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, or other similar resilientflexible material of combination thereof) may be employed while notdeparting from the spirit of the invention.

First head reservoir 110 and second head reservoir 116 are designed as arefillable dispenser allowing for the acceptance of dentifrice capsule118, depicted as a gel-filled pod. However, it is well recognized thatnon-refillable, single use reservoirs may be employed. In the preferredembodiment, first head reservoir 110 and second head reservoir 116 areof sufficient dimensions to hold dentifrice pod 118 in place without theneed for an attachment means, however, first head reservoir 110 andsecond head reservoir 116 can include prongs, dimples, ridges, orsimilar protrusions to allow a user to forcibly place the dentifricetherein allowing the attachment means to clasp and position thedentifrice for use. In addition, adhering substances such aswater-soluble non-toxic glues to maintain the dentifrice in thereservoir.

Dentifrice capsule 118 is preferably depicted as encapsulated as itexhibits certain inherent advantages over the traditional method oftoothpaste application wherein toothpaste is forcibly extruded from atube onto toothbrush bristle. First, it is well known in the art thatthe use of toothpaste extruded from tubes results in unevendistribution. The uneven distribution results in the first area to bebrushed receiving excess toothpaste and areas brushed later receivingminimal toothpaste application. The portions that receive excesstoothpaste often experience unhealthy enamel wear while the portionsthat receive too little are not effectively cleaned.

The encapsulated style dentifrice capsule 118 is preferably manufacturedin spherical shape stabilized in a non-toxic, biocompatible thin coatingor shell designed to release the contents when ruptured by teeth ordissolved by saliva. For example, the coating may be manufactured ofgelatin, choline, or other common conventional coatings known in theart. Dentifrice capsule 118 is designed to accomplish a variety of oralcare applications such as therapeutic applications, alleviation of drymouth, removal of putative bacteria, removal of sulfur-based compounds,reduction of dental plaque and resulting gingivitis, reduction of mouthodor, cleaning and whitening of teeth of the oral cavity, etc.Dentifrice capsule 118 can include any common dentifrice such as anydesired quantity of toothpaste or other standard oral care dentifrice,including, but not limited to toothpowder, toothcare gel, toothcareliquids, aqueous oral care solution, etc. It is well known in the artthat dentifrice can include a foaming agent or surfactant, bindingagents, gelatin to help solidify the solution, stabilizers,odor-reducing agents, antibacterial agents, whitening agents,anti-sensitivity agents, anti-tarter agents, anti-plaque agents, plaquehighlighting agents, anti-inflammatory agents, colorants, baking soda,traditional detergents as well as favored minerals such as fluoride.Dentifrice may also include sweetening agents, flavoring agents,nutritional agents, anti-stain agents, dissolving agents, orquick-release agents such as mint films or the like. It is well known inthe art that numerous compounds accomplish the aforementioned oral care,including, but not limited to chlorhexidine, cetyl pyridinium chloride,ethyl lauroyl argening HCl, triclosan, zinc salts, hydrogen peroxide,urea peroxide, sodium percarbonate, KNO₃, bachalin, polyphenols,triclosan, ethyl pyruvate, guanidinoethyl disulfide, vitamins, minerals,amino acids, folic acid, polyvinylphosphoric acid, or combinationsthereof.

FIG. 1B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thepreferred embodiment of the present invention demonstrating the properplacement of encapsulated dentifrice 118 in the first head reservoir 110and second head reservoir 116. As referenced, first head reservoir 110and second head reservoir 116 is designed to receive and retaindentifrice capsule 118. In this instance, dentifrice capsule 118 isspherical in shape and manufactured of slightly larger dimensions thandentifrice capsule 118 so that the user can forcibly place refillabledentifrice capsule 118 therein and first head reservoir 110 and secondhead reservoir 116 can thereby substantially retain rupturabledentifrice capsule 118 for proper use. It is further contemplated by thepresent invention that first head reservoir 110 and second headreservoir 116 may employ a cushioning effect so that upon acceptance ofthe dentifrice capsule 118 any excess pressure applied by the user maybe counteracted thereby preventing premature eruption of dentifricecapsule 118. Dentifrice capsule 118 retains and applies the dentifricetherein in appropriate quantity onto first head bristles 108 and/orsecond head bristles 114 and corresponding channels of distribution (notshown) of first head 106 and/or second head 112, or other correspondingcleaning elements. The referenced dimensions can be of varied sizesdesigned to accept varied sizes of dentifrice capsule 118 or other oralcare material. While the preferred embodiment of the present inventionis designed to be a refillable implement, it is contemplated by thepresent invention that oral hygiene implement 100 may also be designedof suitable size for transport or single use as a disposable unit.Specifically, it is contemplated that oral hygiene unit 100 may bepackaged in suitable form with a gel dentifrice, powder dentifrice, orthe like, including combinations thereof that is readily transported,disposed, or utilized.

FIG. 2 depicts a bottom view in accordance with the preferred embodimentof the present invention exhibiting oral hygiene implement 100comprising ergonomic elongated handle 120 and the placement ofencapsulated dentifrice 118 in the first head 106 comprising first headreservoir 110 and first head bristles 108 positioned at a first end ofelongated handle 120 and a second head 112 comprising second headreservoir 116 and second head bristles 114 positioned at opposing secondend of elongated handle 120. Elongated handle 120 exhibit grip means 122comprised of dimples, protrusions, concave formations, convexformations, ridges, and the like for improved control of the oralhygiene implement 100. It is further contemplated by the presentinvention that alternate grip means 122 may be employed such as thumb ordigit prints, thumb or digit holes, suction mechanisms, or other likehandle modifications to assist in improved grip by the user. One ofordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that substantial gripand stability is essential to the use of oral care devices as a means toprotect the oral cavity and associated regions and limit damage to teethand soft tissue as well as to assist in proper brushing of the region.

FIG. 3A depicts a top view in accordance with the preferred embodimentof the present invention exhibiting oral hygiene implement 300 havinghandle 320 and rubberized upper ridge grip 302 as well as the first headreservoir 310 positioned on first head 312, the second head reservoir306 positioned on second head 306, first head bristles 314, and secondhead bristles 308. First head bristles 314 and second head bristles 308are positioned in a lateral arrangement allowing for the promulgation ofdentifrice between such bristles and redistribution of the dentifricevia channels (not shown) positioned in first head 312 and second head306.

FIG. 3B depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with thealternate embodiment of FIG. 3A of the present invention exhibiting oralhygiene implement 300 having handle 320, rubberized upper ridge grip302, and lower rubberized grip 322 as well as the first head reservoir310 positioned on first head 312, the second head reservoir 306positioned on second head 306, first head bristles 314, and second headbristles 308. Oral hygiene implement 300 includes a modified bristlestructure of a wave shape to aid in the cleaning of the oral cavity. Inaddition to first head bristles 314 and second head bristles 308, oralhygiene implement 300 incorporates additional cleaning elements asdepicted as tongue scrapper 326 on the bottom side of the first headdesigned to cleanse the tongue and gum massager 324 on the bottom sideof the second head designed to massage the gums. It is well known in theart that various oral hygiene implements designed for cleaning one ormore portions of the mouth, including teeth and soft tissues, arecommonly used ranging from looped fibers, scrubbing loofahs, brushes,bristles, massagers, picks, flossing fibers and it is furthercontemplated by the present invention that a plurality of oral hygienecleaning implements are utilized and incorporated into oral hygieneimplement 300.

FIG. 3C depicts a bottom view in accordance with the alternateembodiment of FIG. 3A of the present invention exhibiting oral hygieneimplement 300 having handle 320, rubberized upper ridge grip 302, andlower rubberized grip 322 as well as the first head reservoir 310positioned on first head 312, the second head reservoir 306 positionedon second head 306, first head bristles 314, and second head bristles308. In addition to first head bristles 314 and second head bristles308, oral hygiene implement 300 incorporates additional cleaningelements as depicted as tongue scrapper 326 and gum massager 324.

FIG. 4 depicts a series of top views in accordance he alternateembodiment of FIG. 3A of the present invention exhibiting various oralhygiene implement 300 head reservoirs of various shapes and sizes forthe acceptance and retention of encapsulated dentifrice. As referenced,dentifrice can be any paste, liquid, or powder used to help maintainacceptable oral hygiene. While in the preferred embodiment as depictedin FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B, dentifrice capsule 118 is depicted as sphericalshape stabilized in a non-toxic, biocompatible thin coating or shelldesigned to release the contents when ruptured by teeth or dissolved bysaliva, it is contemplated by the present invention that dentifricecapsule may be manufactured in a myriad of aesthetically-pleasing andchild friendly shapes to encourage use of the dentifrice. For example,FIG. 4 depicts oval-shaped dentifrice 400, conical-shaped dentifrice402, pyramid-shaped dentifrice 404, elevated triangular-shapeddentifrice 406, and polygon-shaped dentifrice 408. Of course, one ofordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the shapeddentifrice asserted herein are merely examples and that numerous shapesand sizes of dentifrice may be utilized in keeping with the objectivesof the present invention.

FIG. 5A depicts a cross-sectional side view in accordance with analternate embodiment of the present invention wherein oral hygieneimplement 500 is presented prior to the placement of encapsulateddentifrice 118 in the head reservoir 504 of the first head and thesecond head. Handle 520 of oral hygiene implement 500 further exhibitsuser-friendly design 502. FIG. 5B further depicts proper placement ofencapsulated dentifrice 118 in the head reservoir 504 of the first headand the second head. While design 502 positioned on handle 520 isprimarily presented as decoration, one of ordinary skill in the art canreadily recognize that various designs (beyond the mere cosmic designdepicted) may be employed to assist in the usage of oral hygieneimplement 500. For example, a glow-in-the dark design may be employed toaid in nighttime usage of oral hygiene implement 500 or even to enticechildren into using the implement. Further, design 502 may be tailoredto a particular user thereby preventing one user from contaminatinganother user's oral hygiene implement. Finally, design 502 may bepositioned in such a manner to educate a user as to the proper grippositions for the most effective use of oral hygiene implement 500.

Turning to FIG. 6, depicted is a bottom view of a plurality of packagedoral hygiene implements in accordance with the preferred and alternateembodiments of the present invention. Packaging 602, such as commonblister pack type packaging, is designed to securely allow for thetransport of a plurality (in this case depicted as four) of oral careimplements 600 in a safe manner thereby avoiding damage to oral careimplement 600, damage to the dentifrice contained therein, or any crosscontamination with various environment elements.

FIG. 7A through FIG. 7D depict an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention wherein oral hygiene implement 700 includes a plurality ofremovable and replaceable heads to allow for the incorporation of aseries of oral hygiene cleaning implements. Specifically, FIG. 7Adepicts a top view of oral hygiene implement 700 in accordance with thealternate embodiment, FIG. 7B depicts a cross-sectional side view oforal hygiene implement 700 in accordance with the alternate embodimentwith attached first head 706 and second head 712, FIG. 7C depicts across-sectional side view of oral hygiene implement 700 in accordancewith the alternate embodiment with attached first head 706 and secondhead 712, and FIG. 7D depicts a bottom view of oral hygiene implement700 in accordance with the alternate embodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 700 of FIG. 7A through FIG. 7D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 720 and upper ridge grip 702. Oral careimplement 700 includes first head reservoir 710 for placement ofdentifrice capsule 118 therein positioned on first head 706, second headreservoir 716 for placement of dentifrice capsule 118 therein positionedon second head 712, first head bristles 708, second head bristles 714,first head cleaning element 728 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement),and second head cleaning element 730. First head bristles 708 and secondhead bristles 714 are positioned in a lateral arrangement allowing forthe promulgation of dentifrice between such bristles and redistributionof the dentifrice via channels (not shown) positioned in first head 706and second head 712. Handle 720 is designed in a substantially elongatedprolate spheriodal shape so that the center portion is of sufficientmass and shape to allow a user proper grip and the end portions are ofsmaller dimensions to allow for the insertion into a user's oral cavityas well as the incorporation of a ball 722 and socket 724 joint.Specifically, at a first end of handle 720 and a second end of handle720, a socket portion of the ball and socket joint is present.Similarly, a ball is formed at the non-bristle portion of first head 706and a ball is formed at the non-bristle portion of second head 712 toallow for the stable insertion and snap of first head 706 and secondhead 712 into handle 710 in the direction depicted. Of course, removalof first head 706 and second head 712 is accomplished by applying forcein the opposing direction and allows for ease of removal of the heads toallow for easy disposal and/or replacement with new heads exhibiting thesame cleaning elements or different cleaning elements as desired by theuser.

While a ball and socket joint is depicted in the alternate embodiment ofFIG. 7A through FIG. 7D, one of ordinary skill in the art will readilyrecognize that various connection structures may be employed which easein manufacture such as the screw connection employed in the furtheralternate embodiment of FIG. 8A through FIG. 8D. FIG. 8A through FIG. 8Ddepict an alternate embodiment of the present invention wherein oralhygiene implement 800 includes a plurality of removable and replaceableheads to allow for the incorporation of a series of oral hygienecleaning implements. Specifically, FIG. 8A depicts a top view of oralhygiene implement 800 in accordance with the alternate embodiment, FIG.8B depicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygiene implement 800 inaccordance with the alternate embodiment with attached first head 806and second head 812, FIG. 8C depicts a cross-sectional side view of oralhygiene implement 800 in accordance with the alternate embodiment withattached first head 806 and second head 812, and FIG. 8D depicts abottom view of oral hygiene implement 800 in accordance with thealternate embodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 800 of FIG. 8A through FIG. 8D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 820 and upper ridge grip 802. Oral careimplement 800 includes first head reservoir 810 for placement ofdentifrice capsule 118 therein positioned on first head 806, second headreservoir 816 for placement of dentifrice capsule 118 therein positionedon second head 812, first head bristles 808, second head bristles 814,first head cleaning element 828 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement),and second head cleaning element 830. While the present embodiment ofthe invention depicting first head cleaning element 828 and second headcleaning element 830 do not illustrate a reservoir for dentifrice, it iscontemplated by the present invention that the corresponding heads maybe manufactured of sufficient size and head to allow these cleaningelements to incorporate a reservoir for the insertion of dentifricetherein. Thus, it is contemplated by the present invention that fourreservoirs for the acceptance of dentifrice may be incorporated into asingle implement depending on various cleaning elements utilized. Firsthead bristles 808 and second head bristles 814 are positioned in alateral arrangement allowing for the promulgation of dentifrice betweensuch bristles and redistribution of the dentifrice via channels (notshown) positioned in first head 806 and second head 812. Handle 820 isdesigned in a substantially elongated prolate spheriodal shape so thatthe center portion is of sufficient mass and shape to allow a userproper grip and the end portions are of smaller dimensions to allow forthe insertion into a user's oral cavity as well as the incorporation ofscrew joint. Specifically, at a first end of handle 820 and a second endof handle 820, a female end 824 of the screw joint is present.Similarly, a male end 822 of screw joint is formed at the non-bristleportion of first head 806 and a male end 822 of screw joint is formed atthe non-bristle portion of second head 812 to allow for the stableinsertion and screw (shown in the counter-clockwise direction) of firsthead 806 and second head 812 into handle 810 in the direction depicted.Of course, removal of first head 806 and second head 812 is accomplishedby unscrewing in the opposing direction thereby allowing for ease ofremoval of the heads to allow for easy disposal and/or replacement withnew heads exhibiting the same cleaning elements or different cleaningelements as desired by the user.

FIG. 9A through FIG. 9D depict an alternate embodiment of the presentinvention wherein oral hygiene implement 900 includes a plurality ofremovable and replaceable heads to allow for the incorporation of aseries of oral hygiene cleaning implements. Specifically, FIG. 9Adepicts a top view of oral hygiene implement 900 in accordance with thealternate embodiment, FIG. 9B depicts a cross-sectional side view oforal hygiene implement 900 in accordance with the alternate embodimentwith attached first head 906 and second inclined interdental brush head912, FIG. 9C depicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygieneimplement 900 in accordance with the alternate embodiment with attachedfirst head 906 and second inclined interdental brush head 912, and FIG.9D depicts a bottom view of oral hygiene implement 900 in accordancewith the alternate embodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 900 of FIG. 9A through FIG. 9D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 920, upper ridge grip 902, and lower ridgegrip 904. While upper ridge grip 902 and lower ridge grip 904 aredepicted as two distinct portions, it is recognized that a single ridgegrip may be utilized which travels entirely around Oral care implement900 includes first head reservoir 910 for placement of dentifricecapsule 118 therein positioned on first head 906, second inclinedinterdental brush head 912, first head bristles 908, first head cleaningelement 928 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement), and coiled bristles916. Handle 720 is designed in a substantially elongated prolatespheriodal shape so that the center portion is of sufficient mass andshape to allow a user proper grip and the end portions are of smallerdimensions to allow for the insertion into a user's oral cavity as wellas the incorporation of a ball 922 and socket 924 joint. Specifically,at a first end of handle 920 and a second end of handle 920, a socketportion of the ball and socket joint is present. Similarly, a ball isformed at the non-bristle portion of first head 906 and a ball is formedat the non-bristle portion of second inclined interdental brush head 912to allow for the stable insertion and snap of first head 906 and secondinclined interdental brush head 912 into handle 920 in the directiondepicted. Of course, removal of first head 906 and second inclinedinterdental brush head 912 is accomplished by applying force in theopposing direction and allows for ease of removal of the heads to allowfor easy disposal and/or replacement with new heads exhibiting the samecleaning elements or different cleaning elements as desired by the user.

FIG. 10 depicts an expanded cross-sectional side view of the ball andsocket snap head in accordance with the alternate embodiment disclosedin FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C, and FIG. 7D of the present invention. Theexpanded view of first head 706 includes first head reservoir 710 forplacement of dentifrice capsule 118 among first head bristles 708. Inthis image, first head bristles 708 are constructed of conical shape toallow for acute cleaning and flossing when utilized by the user. Firsthead bristles 708 are positioned in a lateral arrangement allowing forthe promulgation of dentifrice between such bristles and redistributionof the dentifrice via channels (not shown) positioned in first head 706First head further includes first head cleaning element 728 (shown as atongue cleaning implement) as well as dentifrice capsule puncture 1032which allows for the puncture of dentifrice capsule 118 when pressure isapplied by the user once positioned in the oral cavity. As previouslydiscussed, dentifrice capsule 118 can be manufactured of suitably thinmaterial so that use of dentifrice capsule puncture 1032 is optional.Ball 722, positioned at the non-bristle portion of first head 706 allowsfor the stable insertion and snap, as well as the removal of, first head706.

FIG. 11 depicts a cross-sectional side view of the twist replaceablehead system in accordance with the alternate embodiment disclosed inFIG. 8A, FIG. 8B, FIG. 8C, and FIG. 8D of the present invention. Theexpanded view of first head 806 includes first head reservoir 810 forplacement of dentifrice capsule 118 among first head bristles 808. Inthis image, first head bristles 808 are constructed of substantiallycylindrical shape to allow for uniform, general cleaning when utilizedby the user. First head bristles 808 are positioned in a non-uniformlateral arrangement. First head further includes first head cleaningelement 828 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement) as well dentifricecapsule puncture 1132 which allows for the puncture of dentifricecapsule 118 when pressure is applied by the user once positioned in theoral cavity. As previously discussed, dentifrice capsule 118 can bemanufactured of suitably thin material so that use of dentifrice capsulepuncture 1132 is optional. Male end 822 of screw joint, positioned atthe non-bristle portion of first head 806 allows for the stableinsertion and screw, as well as the removal of, first head 806.

FIG. 12 depicts an expanded cross-sectional side view of the ball andsocket snap second inclined interdental brush head 912 in accordancewith the alternate embodiment disclosed in FIG. 7A, FIG. 7B, FIG. 7C,and FIG. 7D of the present invention. Ball 922, positioned at thenon-bristle portion of second inclined interdental brush head 912 allowsfor the stable insertion and snap, as well as the removal of, secondinclined interdental brush head 912. The expanded view of secondinclined interdental brush head 912 depicts coiled bristles 916. Whilecoiled bristles 916 are depicted in the present invention, one ofordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that various bristlearrangements may be used as is common in the creation of interdentalbrushes such as narrow stem and radiating bristle rings of graduallyincreasing length project, rubberized conical shapes, etc. Further, itis contemplated that second inclined interdental brush head 912 may bemounted in socket of handle in either an up position or down positionbased on user preference and that a shield may be provided to protectthe user and the brush during non-use.

FIG. 13A through FIG. 13D depict a further alternate embodiment of thepresent invention wherein oral hygiene implement 1300 includes a springloaded dentifrice release mechanism. Specifically, FIG. 13A depicts atop view of oral hygiene implement 1300 in accordance with the alternateembodiment, FIG. 13B depicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygieneimplement 1300 in accordance with the alternate embodiment, FIG. 13Cdepicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygiene implement 1300 inaccordance with the alternate embodiment, and FIG. 13D depicts a bottomview of oral hygiene implement 1300 in accordance with the alternateembodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 1300 of FIG. 13A through FIG. 13D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 1320 and full grip 1302. Oral careimplement 1300 includes first head 1306, second head 1312, first headbristles 1308, second head bristles 1314, first head cleaning element1328 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement), and second head cleaningelement 1330. Handle 1320 is designed to include a channel for thestorage and distribution of a plurality of dentifrice capsule 118 viarelease mechanism employing a spring release button 1326 for releasing aspring 1328. In this example, oral care implement 1300 is provided in“loaded” state with dentifrice capsules 118 disposed therein and it isfurther contemplated by the present invention that release mechanism oforal care implement 1300 may be recharged with dentifrice capsules 118.Alternatively, oral care implement 1300 may be designed to be discardedonce the dentifrice capsules 118 therein are discharged. As shown,dentifrice capsules 118 on one side of oral care implement 1300 aredifferent than dentifrice capsules 118 on the opposing side of oral careimplement 1300 (e.g., one side contains gel-based toothpaste and theopposing side contains mouthwash capsules).

FIG. 14A through FIG. 14D depict a further alternate embodiment of thepresent invention wherein oral hygiene implement 1400 includes a pistonloaded dentifrice release mechanism. Specifically, FIG. 14A depicts atop view of oral hygiene implement 1400 in accordance with the alternateembodiment, FIG. 14B depicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygieneimplement 1400 in accordance with the alternate embodiment, FIG. 14Cdepicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygiene implement 1400 inaccordance with the alternate embodiment, and FIG. 14D depicts a bottomview of oral hygiene implement 1400 in accordance with the alternateembodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 1400 of FIG. 14A through FIG. 14D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 1420 and full grip 1402. Oral careimplement 1400 includes first head 1406, second head 1412, first headbristles 1408, second head bristles 1414, first head cleaning element1428 (shown as a tongue cleaning implement), and second head cleaningelement 1430. Handle 1420 is designed to include a channel for thestorage and distribution of a plurality of dentifrice capsules 118 viarelease mechanism employing a push button 1426 for applying pressure viaa slide piston 1428 for pushing dentifrice capsules 118. In thisexample, oral care implement 1400 is provided in “loaded” state withdentifrice capsules 118 disposed therein and it is further contemplatedby the present invention that release mechanism of oral care implement1400 may be recharged with encapsulated dentifrice capsules 118.Alternatively, oral care implement 1400 may be designed to be discardedonce the dentifrice capsules 118 therein are discharged. As shown,dentifrice capsules 118 on one side of oral care implement 1400 aredifferent than dentifrice capsules 118 on the opposing side of oral careimplement 1400 (e.g., one side contains gel-based toothpaste and theopposing side contains mouthwash capsules).

Turning to the next set of figures, FIG. 15A through FIG. 15D depict afurther alternate embodiment of the present invention wherein oralhygiene implement 1500 includes a spring loaded dentifrice releasemechanism and a dental floss storage and release cavity. Specifically,FIG. 15A depicts a top view of oral hygiene implement 1500 in accordancewith the alternate embodiment, FIG. 15B depicts a cross-sectional sideview of oral hygiene implement 1500 in accordance with the alternateembodiment, FIG. 15C depicts a cross-sectional side view of oral hygieneimplement 1500 in accordance with the alternate embodiment, and FIG. 15Ddepicts a bottom view of oral hygiene implement 1500 in accordance withthe alternate embodiment.

Oral hygiene implement 1500 of FIG. 15A through FIG. 15D of the presentinvention incorporates handle 1520 and full grip 1502. Oral careimplement 1500 includes first head 1506, second head 1512, first headbristles 1508, second head bristles 1514 employing a waved bristlestructure, first head cleaning element 1528 (shown as a tongue cleaningimplement), and second head cleaning element 1530. Handle 1520 includesdental floss storage and release cavity 1536 designed to house anddispense dental floss 1538. Dental floss storage and release cavity 1536can further employ a cutter to cut dental floss 1538 at a desired lengthand can also include a retraction mechanism with pull lock to dispense adesired length of dental floss 1538 and retract to a locking point.Handle 1520 is designed to include a channel for the storage anddistribution of a plurality of dentifrice capsule 118 via releasemechanism employing a spring release button 1526 for releasing a spring1528. In this example, oral care implement 1500 is provided in “loaded”state with dentifrice capsules 118 disposed therein and it is furthercontemplated by the present invention that release mechanism of oralcare implement 1500 may be recharged with dentifrice capsules 118.Alternatively, oral care implement 1500 may be designed to be discardedonce the dentifrice capsules 118 therein are discharged. As shown,dentifrice capsules 118 on one side of oral care implement 1500 aredifferent than dentifrice capsules 118 on the opposing side of oral careimplement 1300 (e.g., one side contains paste-based toothpaste and theopposing side contains water soluble powder capsules).

FIG. 16A through FIG. 16E depict an alternate embodiment of oral hygieneimplement 1600 including musical device 1634 positioned in handle 1620.Oral hygiene implement 1600 is composed of upper grip 1602, lower grip1604 removable and replaceable snap first head 1606, removable andreplaceable snap second head 1612, first head bristles 1608, second headbristles 1614, first head reservoir 1610, second head reservoir 1616,first cleaning element 1628, and second cleaning element 1630.Dentifrice 118 is positioned in first head reservoir 1610 and secondhead reservoir in proximity to dentifrice capsule puncture 1626.Dentifrice 118 is promulgated via between bristles via channels 1632 infirst head 1606 and second head 712. Removable and replaceable snapfirst head 1606 and removable and replaceable snap second head 1612 areshown in an inserted state (see FIG. 16B) and an un-inserted state (seeFIG. 16C). At a first end of handle 1620 and a second end of handle1620, a socket portion of a ball and socket joint is present. A ball isformed at the non-bristle portion of first head 1606 and a ball isformed at the non-bristle portion of second head 1612 to allow for theinsertion and snap of first head 1606 and second head 1612 into handle1620 in the direction depicted. Similarly, removal of first head 1606and second head 1612 is accomplished by applying force in the opposingdirection.

FIG. 16E depicts an exploded view cross-sectional side view of thecenter portion of oral hygiene implement 1600 depicted in FIG. 16B inaccordance with an alternate embodiment of the present invention. In theexploded view, intricacies of musical device 1634 positioned in handle1620 are further apparent. Specifically, musical device 1634 iscomprised of at least battery 1636, storage unit 1638, speaker 1640,switch 1642 comprised of a retractable spring-loaded button, contact1644 for electronic and sound storage 1644, connection 1646 betweenelectronic and sound storage, battery connection 1648 between battery,electronic, and sound storage, protector 1650 composed of perforationsor similar thin substrate designed to allow for the sound to emit at anappropriate audible level.

FIG. 17 depicts a perspective of dispenser 1702 for storing, dispensing,and refilling dentifrice capsules for use with the various embodimentsof the present invention. Dispenser includes a storage vial 1704 and arelease portion 1706. Dispenser is manufactured of any suitable plasticor like material which allows for the safe and hygienic storage anddistribution of the dentifrice capsules 118 for use in refilling thevarious oral care implements disclosed herein. While a vial is shown, itis also contemplated by the present invention that various additionaldispensers may be employed, such as blister pack units.

The foregoing description of the embodiments have been set forth inconsiderable detail for the purpose of making a complete disclosure ofthe present invention. It will be appreciated by those skilled in theart that changes could be made to the embodiments described abovewithout departing from the broad inventive concept thereof. It isunderstood, therefore, that this invention is not limited to theparticular embodiments disclosed, but it is intended to cover allmodifications that are within the scope and spirit of the invention asdefined by the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An oral hygiene implement for improved oralhygiene, said toothbrush comprising: an elongated handle containingdental floss storage and distribution system; a first interchangeablehead removably connected to said elongated handle having a firstreservoir; a first dentifrice capsule positioned within said firstreservoir; a second interchangeable head removably connected to saidelongated handle having a second reservoir; and a second dentifricecapsule positioned within said second reservoir.
 2. The oral hygieneimplement according to claim 1 wherein said cleaning elements areselected from a group consisting of bristles, interdental brushes, andscrapers.
 3. The oral hygiene implement according to claim 1 whereinsaid dentifrice is selected from a group consisting of pastes, gels,liquids, films, and powders.
 4. The oral hygiene implement according toclaim 1 wherein said dentifrice is encapsulated in a non-toxic andbiocompatible thin coating and designed to be ruptured.
 5. The oralhygiene implement according to claim 1 wherein said elongated handle,first interchangeable head, and second interchangeable head aremanufactured from a thermoplastic and designed to be used and discarded.6. The oral hygiene implement according claim 1 wherein said firstreservoir and second reservoir employ prongs to hold and position saiddentifrice and assist in rupturing said dentifrice.
 7. An oral hygieneimplement for improved oral hygiene, said toothbrush comprising: anelongated handle containing dental floss storage and distributionsystem; a first interchangeable head removably connected to saidelongated handle having a first reservoir and at least two cleaningelements; a first dentifrice capsule positioned within said firstreservoir; a second interchangeable head removably connected to saidelongated handle having a second reservoir and at least two cleaningelements; and a second dentifrice capsule positioned within said secondreservoir.
 8. The oral hygiene implement according to claim 7 whereinsaid cleaning elements are selected from a group consisting of bristles,interdental brushes, and scrapers.
 9. The oral hygiene implementaccording to claim 7 wherein said dentifrice is selected from a groupconstiting of pastes, gels, liquids, films, and powders.
 10. The oralhygiene implement according to claim 7 wherein said dentifrice isencapsulated in a non-toxic and biocompatible thin coating and designedto be ruptured.
 11. The oral hygiene implement according to claim 7wherein said elongated handle, first interchangeable head, and secondinterchangeable head are manufactured from a thermoplastic and designedto be used and discarded.
 12. The oral hygiene implement according claim7 wherein said first reservoir and second reservoir employ prongs tohold and position said dentifrice and assist in rupturing saiddentifrice.
 13. A method for practicing improved oral hygiene, saidmethod comprising: removing floss from an elongated handle of a an oralhygiene implement containing a dental floss storage and distributionsystem for flossing teeth with said floss; attaching a firstinterchangeable head having a first reservoir to said elongated handle;attaching a second interchangeable head having a second reservoir tosaid elongated handle; brushing teeth by creating friction between saidfirst interchangeable head and teeth; freshening breath by creatingfriction between said second interchangeable head and teeth; anddiscarding said floss and said first and second interchangeable heads.14. The method according to claim 13 further comprising the step ofcleaning said teeth using a cleaning element selected from a list ofbristles, interdental brushes, and scrapers.
 15. The method according toclaim 13 wherein said first reservoir is filled with a dentifriceselected from a group consisting of pastes, gels, liquids, films, andpowders.
 16. The method according to claim 13 wherein said secondreservoir is filled with a dentifrice selected from a group consistingof pastes, gels, liquids, films, and powders.